20 Best Books For African American Women (2023 Update)

Book helped me see myself better. I have a greater appreciation for my sisters,colleagues and mother. I recommend this book to any African American woman and have shared with many ladies and they all rave about how it has helped them.missyamber2000

This book details, with research to back up all hypothesis's, the coping strategies of African American women in America. Inspired by the research work of a psychologist and a journalist, it descriptively and accurately delves into the "shifting" many, if not all African-American women do to fit into the various different "worlds" in which they operate, as each "world" demands the putting forth of some aspects of her personality and the hiding and or subjugation of others. An African-American woman can, therefore; relax into the totality of her whole-self with her sister-friends, then 'shift' in her relationship with her husband, to appear appropriately supportive- always sensitive to his difficulties as a black man in America, 'shifting' yet again when she goes to work and needs to exude an air of professionalism- using the Queen's english and shelving the 'ethnicisms.' The book rightfully asserts that this is quite a skill to master and goes onto illustrate how the "shifting" includes body language, and picking up on the subtlest of messages sent, and that only one NEEDING to master such a complex repertoire of communication would ever even bother to do so. It chronicles the stories of women who have also chosen to live their truth in every situation- choosing not to shift – and the cost they pay for their decisions. It lists the strains, stresses and taxing outcomes that "shifting" has upon African-Ameircan women and instills in the reader the need to understand the importance of rejuvenating ones soul. The individual stories of the women who participated in the initial research are thoughtful, moving and at times harrowing. Many of the women use their exactingness, their education and eloquence, their sheer forthrightness and honesty to openly battle aggregious stereotypes and racism. The language and style of the book is straightforward reading, divided into easy to follow chapters that propel you along rather smoothly. The book delves into the strong inspiration that religion has in the lives of the women, primarily focusing on the relationship of African American Women and the church. The only addition I should have liked to see is the diversity of the women in faith also. Baring that, the book is an exceptional read and one every African-American woman or anyone who cares about African-American women should have.waddud

This book is much better than expected. Great read. Love the compelling essays from female British writers. So many perspectives with reading compelling journeys of women who have made Britain a new way of life as women of color fight to be heard and express what is vital to people of colors growth. The willingness to no longer be silent with respect to having grace and class when being heard. TBC…mizlady99

I couldn't have loved this book more! The author really bared her soul and spoke to the core of what so many women are dealing with today in their busy, frantic, high-achieving lives. Trey quickly draws you in with her vivid and very personal descriptions of the behind the scenes emotions, doubts, and fears of a successful woman. I love that each chapter gave the reader something to think about in their own lives, and affirmations that were meaningful and helpful and not at all cheesy. I loved listening to her tell her story in her own voice – she had me laughing (anyone who has a Caribbean mother will agree) and crying throughout the book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is putting in the hard work to live their best lives – take the time to care for yourself and your emotions. For myself, this book has been a powerful first step in that direction.LisaB

Girl, Woman, Other is the winner of the Booker Prize 2019 and deservedly so. Bernardine Evaristo has written a powerful story featuring 12 mostly black female characters of different ages from a teenager to a great grandmother from different backgrounds living in the UK. The novel captures a portrayal of modern Britain, presenting 12 original tales of women and their struggles of living in a predominantly white society. Each tale is unique, yet they are all linked. There's a lot packed in this book, with race and gender discriminaton being the most dominant themes of the book. Evaristo adopted an experimental writing style with no full stops or capital letters at the end and start of the sentences. Neither there are quotation marks for dialogues. While the lack of punctuation threw me off balance at first and got me worried this was going to be another Milkman, luckily, that was not the case. After just a couple of chapters I got used to the style and it didn't bother me at all after that. This book is unique and original, unlike anything I've ever read. It is a fascinating, timely and eye-opening read. I'm already thinking that I probably want to re-read the book next year which says a lot as I hardly ever do re-reads.Jim The Runner

If I could miss first 3 chapters, without it meaning the reader would be unable to locate later characters it would be super for me. First half too much change of thought for me. it was still challenging and I appreciate updating the products of my ancient thinking. My critique must be around 40 years out of date, re sex but I am leading the field on colour issues and felt deeply for those dealt with here. Just coming to terms with ageism my self, but at 86 beyond caring too much about that. In this day and age it seems one can still think and feel BUT just do not spout about it, in case someone takes offence at friendly banter. What a challenge this book is. So much so I will read it all again.sheilashmor0

i actually read it before buying my own personal copy ( a friend lent me their copy) but doesnt that say enough about how brilliant this book is??? i rarely ever buy lent books but i simply had to get my own copy. God blesssss this book 10/10! absolutely no faults!far_9179

I would use this product to apply to my life sutuations. I would highly recommend this book to any male or female that is facing any type of life struggle. I strongly recommend reading the book and I also recommend tuning into Facebook to hear her Car Chronicle messages Mon-Fri starting at 6:30 am.Tonya

I really like the book. It helps with understanding the root causes of anger. Its pretty simple to real and understand. The only thing is that i wish it was a little bit deeper in content, but its alright. It is worth the buy though,Donavan

Reading, learning, and discovering Jessica’s adventures through pictures, her words, good, and everything in between. The counties she’s been too – I could only dream of!! She’s the first black woman to accomplish this and what a captivating journey! Pick this up immediately!!Blackbarbei

if we are always on the mountains, how can we experience what the valley is like.the valley has the running water. thank god, for everything.sdanae2003

This book has brought me out of some dark places and made me appreciate all of the experiences life has brought my way. I read it many years ago but I needed to buy it again because 20 years later I needed a refresher course.spradmart2015

I purchased several copies of Valley in the Valley via Ebay. I have given copies of the book as gifts to women who desire to move pass their perceived limitations in life. It is wonderful reading material for anyone who wishes to learn what values can be discovered in life's trying times. I read this book over and over throughout the years for re-enforcement of positive thinking and spiritual guidance. I am a better person after having read this book and applying some of the lessons learned in my daily living.lisaej24

Hidden Figures tells an inspiring story of brilliant women who achieved great things against the odds stacked against them ranging from racisism to sexism. Despite all, they rose to the challenge and helped America in moving its' space program forward. A timely read for all that tells s little known story until now.cynthismit_82

I am more interested in the biological sciences rather than the physic and math sciences, therefore this book did not interest me as I thought it would. The fact that black folks, especially women, becoming computers and having significant roles in the development of the space program, and moving into the middle class was interesting. I skimmed over the particulars regarding the space program itself. The book was not a cliff hanger.Donna

The book was a little hard for me to read. I saw the movie and I figured there were parts of the book that were changed. The book is more of a documentary and I really appreciate the author's effort to present a concise picture of events. I lived in the are for several years and even knew quite a few locals but the true history of NASA LANGLEY was never mentioned. I now feel like I need to return and take a second look at some of the museums. This is a must read for young people. It gives you a great lesson in believing in your self and dealing with the workplace.LCee

I love the author’s poetry and the cover art is phenomenal. I wish to share her work with more of my community but the quantity at the nearby Targets is one or none. Please help me share her work.Aye

as you read further into the book you just can't put it down. i got yelled at, at work because i just couldn't put it down. black girl magic and this FORSURE a 10 start girlys.love

I love the fact that the author speaks women caring trauma within their center most sacred part within int body (the womb). I love the fact that she encourages wombman to get connected with their femininity side and commune with their womb to figure out what you're off trauma may actually be stored within whereby they can take full action to heal their self. This book is an awesome read to help accomplish womb relationship and I recommend it for all to read… Beginners have the opportunity to learn and build. As well the matured can also grasp great pointers rather to add to their routine as well add use the models to help construct small circles that lives may be impacted…thdeo.us.hcx811w

I love this book for the information. But in this case, I want to speak about the quality of the book. The cover and pages are made of a very cheap paper, very flimsy, it has a newspaper feel to it. This is the type of book that you pick up everyday because is a guide and it has information that you have to read on a daily basis. If I could change anything it would be better quality on the cover and pages.rosa

This book teaches us to grow and acknowledge those pains within us that probably lead us to live the we live and it's help you live today in an even better way. Take from the book what you want. But there is so much you can take. It's such medicine to the mind full of great knowledge.sneakersmk

This book had me feeling happiness, despair, anger and all other emotions though out the whole novel. I sympathize and truly feel like this book, not just pulls you in but reminds you that every great thing in life, is takes million hours of work. But that you also allowed to defeated and exhausted during that battle.Lulu

This book is one that I'll never forget. It has tugged at my heartstrings, and has helped me gain a new perspective in life. I rarely say that about a book, especially a fiction novel. Black Women Must Die Exhausted is about Tabitha Walker a 30's something TV news reporter. She feels like she's got everything in her life planned out, she's got a list and checked off each detail. But, a huge bombshell is dropped on her, she's got a new and potentially life altering medical crisis dropped in her life, and she doesn't have much time if she wants the future she's planned for, worked so hard for. She works hard, extremely hard. Hard in her job, having to fight hard for a promotion. Hard in her personal relationships, where is her long time boyfriend going with her on this journey. Hard with her family relationships. Hard just to stay safe, encountering police officers is absolutely terrifying and she knows that the wrong move, the wrong officer could be potentially deadly. Hard to keep her appearance up to a standard set by her job, she longs to be able to have her own style. Hard to get a career changing story. So hard all the time. Her one true constant is her beloved grandmother, who is her namesake. She's very close to her grandmother and is able to be more of herself around her. You'll follow her journey and see how her growth as a person. This really is one of those life changing novels and you will definitely be glad you've read it. I would like to thank Jayne Allen, Harper Perennial, and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.LeighReads